Government steps to increase 5G connectivity in the country

The Government of India has launched several initiatives under the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) to enhance telecommunication connectivity in remote areas. Key projects include the Comprehensive Telecom Development Plan (CTDP) for mobile services in the North Eastern Region, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep, with a total investment of Rs. 4,050 crore (US$ 469.20 million). Additionally, the mobile services scheme for Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected areas and Aspirational Districts is being implemented at Rs. 13,179 crore (US$ 1.53 billion). The 4G Saturation Project is focused on providing 4G connectivity to uncovered villages, with an investment of Rs. 26,300 crore (US$ 3.05 billion). The BharatNet project has also been amended to ensure broadband access in Gram Panchayats (GPs) and villages. 

To accelerate 5G deployment, the government has taken steps such as the auction of spectrum, financial reforms for Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR), and removal of Spectrum Usage Charges (SUC) for auctions post-2022. Other measures include simplifying the Standing Advisory Committee on Radio Frequency Allocations (SACFA) clearance, launching the PM GatiShakti Sanchar portal, and streamlining Right of Way (RoW) permissions. Since the launch of 5G in October 2022, 4.69 lakh 5G Base Transceiver Stations (BTSs) have been installed nationwide, with 2.95 lakh BTSs deployed in FY24 alone. Currently, 99.6% of districts in India have access to 5G services, making it one of the fastest rollouts globally. The minister of state shared the details for communications and rural development, Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, in a written reply to Lok Sabha. 

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.